Impact of Cyclone Jude in Malawi and Mozambique: A Summary of Relief Efforts
Tropical Cyclone Jude struck southern Africa, primarily impacting Malawi and Mozambique. While no deaths have been reported, thousands are homeless due to extensive damage. Relief operations face challenges, but aid agencies are working to provide support. Injuries have occurred due to collapsing buildings, and search efforts are underway for missing individuals.
Tropical Cyclone Jude impacted southern Africa this week, primarily affecting Malawi and Mozambique. Although there have been no reported fatalities, the cyclone caused significant damage, displacing thousands and leaving numerous areas without electricity. Aid efforts are challenged by washed-away roads, hindering the distribution of relief supplies.
After making landfall in northern Mozambique, the cyclone moved over southern Malawi, leading to heavy rainfall across 13 districts from Monday to Wednesday. A preliminary assessment from Malawi’s Department of Disaster Management Affairs indicated that more than 11,000 individuals were affected, with crops washed away and various properties destroyed or submerged.
The assessment also reported that over 3,000 people were displaced and currently reside in six evacuation camps. While there have been no deaths, the disaster management department indicated that 15 individuals, including children aged 5 and 8, sustained injuries from collapsing buildings. Medical assistance was provided at local hospitals for these injured children.
Rescue teams continue to search for three individuals who went missing after their boat capsized on a flooded river. In Mozambique, relief efforts are severely hampered due to damaged infrastructure in Nampula province, where key roads and bridges have been washed away. The storm also obstructed the movement of relief personnel and materials along the N1 national highway.
Despite these challenges, international aid organizations and the Malawian government have initiated relief operations in accessible regions. The World Food Program (WFP) has begun distributing supplies in Mulanje district, supported by prepositioned food items and emergency kits, including search and rescue boats to facilitate rapid response.
Cyclone Jude recently shifted from Malawi to Mozambique, where it is expected to dissipate shortly. Officials indicated that while the imminent threat of the cyclone has diminished, flooding remains a significant concern. Cyclone Jude is the third such event to affect Mozambique in recent months, following Cyclones Chido and Dikeledi.
In summary, Cyclone Jude has inflicted significant damage across Malawi and Mozambique, displacing thousands while prompting a coordinated relief response. Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported. While the immediate threat from the cyclone is receding, concerns regarding flooding persist. Continued efforts from international organizations and local authorities are critical in addressing the needs of affected communities.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
